Status:
valid
Authors:
Vanth. & Dessein
Source:
wcs
Year:
2011
Citation Micro:
Blumea 56: 149 (2011)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000920296
Common Names
- Erythrocarpa Geophila
- Erythrocarpa Groundcherry
- Erythrocarpa Husk Tomato
Description
Geophila erythrocarpa (also called Geophila, among many other common names) is an annual herb that can reach up to 1 m in height. It is native to Central and South America and is found in grasslands and meadows. It has alternate, lanceolate leaves and white flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Geophila erythrocarpa is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cut flower for bouquets. It is also used for medicinal purposes, such as treating skin diseases and as an antiseptic.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Geophila erythrocarpa is yellow in colour and has a tubular shape. The seed is small and round with a black colour. The seedlings are small and have long, narrow leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Geophila erythrocarpa is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 m tall. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It prefers a warm, humid climate and can tolerate some shade. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of branches and rooted in a moist potting mix. It should be fertilized regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
Where to Find Geophila erythrocarpa
Geophila erythrocarpa is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Species in the Geophila genus
Geophila erythrocarpa,
Geophila afzelii,
Geophila aschersoniana,
Geophila cordata,
Geophila cordifolia,
Geophila croatii,
Geophila emarginata,
Geophila flaviflora,
Geophila gracilis,
Geophila hirta,
Geophila humifusa,
Geophila ingens,
Geophila lancistipula,
Geophila macropoda,
Geophila melanocarpa,
Geophila minutiflora,
Geophila obvallata,
Geophila orbicularis,
Geophila pilosa,
Geophila prancei,
Geophila renaris,
Geophila repens,
Geophila scortechinii,
Geophila speciosa,
Geophila tenuis,
Geophila yunnanensis,
Geophila zollingeriana,
Geophila macrocarpa,
Geophila herbacea,
Species in the Rubiaceae family
Acranthera abbreviata,
Acranthera anamallica,
Acranthera athroophlebia,
Acranthera atropella,
Acranthera aurantiaca,
Acranthera axilliflora,
Acranthera bullata,
Acranthera capitata,
Acranthera ceylanica,
Acranthera didymocarpa,
Acranthera endertii,
Acranthera frutescens,
Acranthera grandiflora,
Acranthera hallieri,
Acranthera hirtostipula,
Acranthera involucrata,
Acranthera johannis-winkleri,
Acranthera lanceolata,
Acranthera longipes,
Acranthera longipetiolata,
Acranthera maculata,
Acranthera megaphylla,
Acranthera monantha,
Acranthera nieuwenhuisii,
Acranthera ophiorhizoides,
Acranthera parviflora,
Acranthera philippensis,
Acranthera ruttenii,
Acranthera salmonea,
Acranthera siamensis,
Acranthera siliquosa,
Acranthera simalurensis,
Acranthera sinensis,
Acranthera strigosa,
Acranthera tomentosa,
Acranthera variegata,
Acranthera velutinervia,
Acranthera yatesii,
Acranthera philippinensis,
Acranthera burmanica,
Acranthera virescens,
Acranthera hoangii,
Acranthera collina,
Acrobotrys discolor,
Acrosynanthus jamaicensis,
Acrosynanthus latifolius,
Acrosynanthus minor,
Acrosynanthus ovatus,
Acrosynanthus parvifolius,
Acrosynanthus revolutus,
References
S. Vanthournout: Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Vanth.' in the authors string.